19. GENTARO

Kamakura, 2000

Gen was upstairs in his room at his desk. His review books were in three neat stacks, put away for the day.

“Don’t forget to thank your Gran,” Lynn said. “The jacket is beautiful. I love the pattern the stitches make. Yuko told me it’s called sashiko. And I’ve finally figured out how to attach those ridiculous Hello Kitty things to my cell phone. So sophisticated,” she laughed.

“Merry Christmas, Lynn. Wish I were there.”

“Gen-chan, I wish you were here too, but we’ll see each other soon. Love you,” she said before she hung up.

Tetsutaro called from downstairs, reminding Gen and his mom that they should leave in ten minutes.

“Yes, dear. I’m just finishing,” his mom answered.

“I’m ready to go, Dad. I’m just going to call Dave and Yuko to say Merry Christmas,” Gen called, as he dialed again.

“Dave, Merry Christmas. I miss you all.”

“Gen, we miss you. My mom was complaining this afternoon that with you gone, no one wants to help her bake. Hold on a sec, while I go get Yuko. She’s upstairs still wrapping some presents. It took us a long time to get the kids to bed. They’re so excited, I doubt they’ll sleep much tonight.”

“My dear Gen. How are you?” said Yuko when she picked up the phone. “And how are your mom and dad? What are you doing to celebrate Christmas?”

“Going to a year-end party at the hospital. My dad’s getting an award.”

“How was Kyushu?

“Great. Loved the time with my Gran. Learned a lot.”

“The studying?”

“I’ve been resolute and I’m ready. I could take the exams today. So next month will be fine.”

“Lynn?”

“Just talked to her. I’ll be there in March with my mom and dad, so we’ll see you all then, and I’ll come back again in the summer. Lynn will come back with me then. I have to take her to Nara to meet my Gran.”

“Merry Christmas, dear Gen, and Akemashite in advance. I know the New Year will bring you success and much happiness.”